Nestled in the lush countryside, just a 30 minute drive from bustling Birmingham resides the stately Hampton Manor hotel.
Surrounded by acres of emerald green grounds and colourful foliage, this luxurious countryside haven is perfect for those in search of rural escapism, chequered picnic blankets, gloriously muddy Hunter wellies and exquisite fine dining.
Accompanied by my partner in crime (and food gorging), I arrived weary limbed and shrouded in the stresses of the city. Soon, this ebbed away to a feeling of calm as I took in the majestic decor of the lobby and lounge area. I marvelled at the classically regal, yet modern decor as we made our way up the ancient wooden staircase to our suite.
An extra large, king sized bed took pride of place in a spacious room opposite a sultry purple sofa bathed in the soft, natural light emanating from the large windows. My favourite novels graced quaint book shelves and freshly baked biscuits lay temptingly next to chic tea and coffee making facilities.
The bathroom was light and airy, featuring a powerful shower and a deep bathtub – perfect for lazy, pleasure-seeking types like myself. A range of high end, natural toiletries (available for sale) lined the shelf above the chic sink, containing skin-loving, plant-based ingredients to revive the body and calm troubled minds.
As much as we adored the sensual comforts of this achingly stylish suite, we managed to pry ourselves away to make it in time for canapés in the lounge and dinner in the hotel’s renowned Peel’s Restaurant.
Last year, Michelin presented the first ever ‘Welcome and Service Award’ to this elegant country restaurant, as well as its first Michelin Star. Regularly frequented by a plethora of Birmingham’s fervent foodies, Peel’s head chef Rob Palmer proudly creates simple, yet unique British dishes using seasonal ingredients and modern cooking techniques.
Our favourites dishes from the 7 course tasting menu included the Beef, Carrot and Prune – medium rare slices of beef fillet served with a red wine jus and, err, carrot and prune – simple yet a foodie party in our mouths.
The asparagus with burrata was delightfully uncomplicated, yet a true pleasure to devour whilst eagerly awaiting our next course.
Peel’s expert sommelier chose the perfect wines to accompany each course, and being self-confessed ‘lightweights,’ I’m ashamed to admit that our recollection of the pudding served is somewhat hazy. I do however remember it being completely otherworldly as we finished off our happy, laughter-fuelled evening with a sugar frenzied finale worthy of an encore.
For more information visit hamptonmanor.com
